Lilian: A Local Favourite Done Right
- Say
- Sep 12, 2024
- 1 min read
This refined osteria and wine bar balances rustic charm and polished execution in a way that feels natural, not staged. Lilian just works. No fuss, no noise. Just good food and wine - and the kind of space you settle into without thinking twice.
The space is warm and moody - with aged timber, beautiful seats with vintage touches. You almost forget you are in Auckland.
The food is direct and confident. Big flavours, cooked hot and designed to share. The raw market fish with cara cara orange, red onion, and capers is sharp, bright and balanced.
The courgette flower comes crisp and golden, filled with ricotta and paired with fennel mayo. The pizzas are simple but clever, while the lamb ribs fall apart under a sticky black garlic glaze. Everything is bold, but nothing feels forced.
The wine list is broad, with something for every item on the menu - from crisp and classic to a few exotic picks. Cocktails rotate and the staff know their way around both. Service is relaxed, confident and lets the food lead.
People come for different reasons - a proper meal, a few drinks or just because it is Lilian.
What we particularly enjoyed:
The stuffed courgette flower - it was crisp, light and done perfectly
The welcoming space feels cosy and warm, while being classic without being over-designed.
